Finasteride
fin-ASS-ter-ide
A pill that blocks the hormone responsible for male pattern hair loss — stops thinning and can regrow hair.
Also known as: Propecia, Proscar
FDA approved for: Male pattern hair loss (Propecia) · Benign prostatic hyperplasia (Proscar)
Last reviewed: April 2026
What It Does
Your body converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which shrinks hair follicles in men genetically prone to hair loss. Finasteride blocks 70% of this conversion, protecting follicles from DHT damage. Less DHT means follicles stay healthy and can recover.
Why People Take It
How It's Administered
Oral
Small tablet taken once daily with or without food
Frequency
Daily
Pain Level
○○○ None
Self-Administered
Yes — at home
Typical Range
1mg daily
What To Expect
Month 1–3
Too early for visible results. DHT levels are declining.
Month 3–6
Hair loss slows or stops. Some early regrowth.
Month 12+
Peak regrowth. Must continue for ongoing benefit.
Side Effects
Overall: Mild
Uncommon (0.1–1%)
Decreased libido
Reported by 1–2% of users. Usually resolves if medication is stopped.
Erectile changes
Reported by ~1% of users.
Rare (<0.1%)
Breast tenderness
Very rare at 1mg dose.
Who Should NOT Take This
• Women (especially pregnant — can cause birth defects in male fetuses)
• Children
• Liver disease
• Men planning to donate blood within 1 month
Drug Interactions
• No significant drug interactions at 1mg dose
Pregnancy: Women who are or may become pregnant must not handle crushed or broken finasteride tablets — can cause birth defects in male fetuses.
Clinical Details
Compare With Similar Peptides
Finasteride blocks the cause (DHT); minoxidil stimulates growth regardless of cause. Best results come from combining both.
Minoxidil
A topical treatment that stimulates hair follicles to grow thicker, longer hair — originally developed as a blood pressure medication.
GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper peptide that stimulates collagen, promotes skin repair, and supports hair growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
We don't currently offer this peptide — but we have protocols for similar goals.
Coming Soon →FDA-approved for at least one indication. Your provider will determine if this is appropriate for you.